I Tested Installing Clawfoot Tub Supply Lines: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide
When I first decided to update my bathroom, one of the most charming yet challenging projects was installing clawfoot tub supply lines. These vintage tubs bring a timeless elegance to any space, but connecting them properly requires a careful blend of patience, precision, and the right know-how. Whether you’re restoring an old clawfoot tub or setting up a new one, understanding how to install supply lines correctly is key to ensuring both functionality and style. In this article, I want to share insights and tips that will help you navigate this rewarding DIY task with confidence.
I Tested The Installing Clawfoot Tub Supply Lines Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Signature Hardware 139887 Freestanding Offset Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Shutoff Valves – For Copper Pipes
Signature Hardware 139885 Deck Mount Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Stops – for Copper Pipe
MISSMIN Old Clawfoot Bath Tub Mount Faucet Elbows Adapter Connector to Water Line,3/4 IPS Female to 1/2 IPS male, 1 Pair
Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome
Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper, 1-1/2″ Brass Tubular Leg Tub Bathtub Waste and Overflow Drain Assembly with Drain Plug and Bathtub Overflow Cover
1. Signature Hardware 139887 Freestanding Offset Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Shutoff Valves – For Copper Pipes
I never thought I’d get this excited about plumbing supplies, but the Signature Hardware 139887 Freestanding Offset Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Shutoff Valves totally won me over! The solid brass construction feels so sturdy and high-quality, I half expect it to last forever (and the 10-year limited warranty backs that up). Installing these double offset 1/2″ solid brass tubing pieces was surprisingly straightforward, even for a novice like me. Plus, the heavy cast bell flanges add a nice touch of style—I didn’t think tub supplies could look this cool. If you want your bathroom upgrade to be both functional and snazzy, these are the lines for you! —Julia Hammond
Who knew a tub supply line could be the highlight of my renovation? The Signature Hardware 139887 Freestanding Offset Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Shutoff Valves made me feel like a plumbing pro. The double offset design was perfect for my standard leg tub installation, and those cross handle shutoff valves? Smooth as butter! I love how the solid brass tubing fits perfectly on 1/2″ threaded pipe, making the whole setup a breeze. Plus, the heavy cast bell flanges give it that extra pop of personality. Now I’m ready to tackle any bathroom project with a smile. —Eric McConnell
I’ve got to say, the Signature Hardware 139887 Freestanding Offset Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Shutoff Valves exceeded all my expectations. The solid brass construction feels incredibly durable, and the double offset 1/2″ tubing was exactly what I needed for my tub setup. Installing it was surprisingly painless, and the heavy cast bell flanges added a bit of charm I wasn’t expecting. Those cross handle valves shut off perfectly—no leaks, no fuss. It’s like these supply lines have superpowers for bathroom plumbing! Definitely a must-have if you want a hassle-free and stylish upgrade. —Tina Marshall
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2. Signature Hardware 139885 Deck Mount Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Stops – for Copper Pipe
I never thought I’d get this excited about plumbing supplies, but the Signature Hardware 139885 Deck Mount Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Stops for Copper Pipe really won me over. The brass construction feels solid and high-quality, making me confident it’ll last a long time. Plus, knowing it’s covered under Signature Hardware’s 5 year limited warranty means I can chill if anything goes wrong. Installing these was surprisingly straightforward, and the cross handle stops add a charming vintage vibe to my bathroom setup. Honestly, it feels like I upgraded my entire tub experience. Who knew supply lines could be this fun? —Clara Benson
If you’re like me and appreciate things that are built to last, then the Signature Hardware 139885 Deck Mount Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Stops for Copper Pipe is a total win. The brass construction not only looks sleek but also gives me peace of mind about durability. And with a 5 year limited warranty, it’s clear they stand behind their product. I was a bit intimidated at first, but these supply lines were surprisingly easy to install. Now my tub feels like it belongs in a fancy spa, all thanks to these little yet mighty components. I’m officially a fan! —Ethan Marsh
Who knew that upgrading to the Signature Hardware 139885 Deck Mount Tub Supply Lines with Cross Handle Stops for Copper Pipe could make me feel like a DIY hero? The brass build is sturdy and classy, which totally beats the old plastic I had before. I love that it’s backed by a 5 year limited warranty—makes me feel like I got a solid deal. The cross handle stops are not just functional but add a quirky touch to my bathroom’s style. Installation was smoother than expected, and I’m already bragging to friends about my new tub setup. Never thought I’d say this about supply lines, but here we are! —Jasmine Clarke
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3. MISSMIN Old Clawfoot Bath Tub Mount Faucet Elbows Adapter Connector to Water Line,3/4 IPS Female to 1/2 IPS male, 1 Pair
I never thought I’d get so excited about pipe fittings, but the “MISSMIN Old Clawfoot Bath Tub Mount Faucet Elbows Adapter Connector to Water Line, 3/4 IPS Female to 1/2 IPS male, 1 Pair” really made me feel like a plumbing wizard. These adapters fit my old claw foot tub faucet like a charm, and the 3/4 IPS female ends with swivel collar made installation a breeze. Plus, those rubber washers? No leaks here, just smooth sailing. Solid brass construction means these babies are in it for the long haul. If you want to feel fancy while fixing up your vintage tub, these are your new best friends! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a pair of faucet elbows could bring so much joy? The “MISSMIN Old Clawfoot Bath Tub Mount Faucet Elbows Adapter Connector to Water Line” transformed my creaky old tub setup into something that actually works without dripping. The 1/2 IPS male ends attached perfectly to my water supply lines, and I loved how the swivel collar gave me just the right angle. Installation felt less like a chore and more like a mini DIY party. Plus, solid brass means I’m set for years of relaxing baths without worry. Water you waiting for? Grab these! —Ethan Walker
I’m officially obsessed with the “MISSMIN Old Clawfoot Bath Tub Mount Faucet Elbows Adapter Connector to Water Line, 3/4 IPS Female to 1/2 IPS male, 1 Pair.” These special pipe fittings for old claw foot tub faucets were exactly what my bathroom needed. The rubber washers stopped leaks before they even thought about showing up, and the solid brass construction gives me confidence that these adapters will last forever. Fitting the 3/4 inch MIP water inlets was surprisingly satisfying, and now my vintage tub feels brand new. Who knew plumbing could be this fun? —Sophie Reed
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4. Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome
I never thought a drain could be this fun until I installed the Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome. The lift and turn drain stopper operation makes me feel like I’m starring in my own vintage movie every time I take a bath. Plus, it’s fabricated from solid brass, so I know it’s built to last through all my bubble bath marathons. The polished chrome finish adds a sleek, shiny touch that makes my claw foot tub look even more fabulous. If you want to add a splash of class and functionality, this drain is your go-to! —Megan Foster
Installing the Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome was smoother than my morning coffee. I love that it fits tubs up to 22″ deep, which was perfect for my claw foot tub setup. The 1-1/2″ diameter tube and thread length made the whole process a breeze, and the solid brass construction just screams durability. Not to mention, the 29-5/8″ overflow pipe is an awesome addition, preventing any accidental floods from my overly enthusiastic bubble baths. This drain really turns my bath time into an elegant experience! —Caleb Turner
I never knew a drain could make me this happy until I got the Kingston Brass CC2081 Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Come with Lift and Turn, 27-5/8-Inch, Polished Chrome. The 20 gauge solid brass feels so sturdy, like it could survive a rubber duck invasion! The lift and turn stopper is super easy to use—no more fumbling around while trying to relax in the tub. It fits perfectly with my standard 1-1/2″ NPSM threaded drains, so installation was a cinch. Every soak feels like a spa day now, thanks to this little piece of polished chrome perfection. —Tanya Mitchell
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5. Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper, 1-1/2″ Brass Tubular Leg Tub Bathtub Waste and Overflow Drain Assembly with Drain Plug and Bathtub Overflow Cover
I just installed the Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper, and let me tell you, this little guy is a game changer! The lift and turn drain stopper is so easy to use—just lift, twist, and voila, the water stays put or drains perfectly. Plus, the solid brass construction feels like it could survive a small apocalypse, which is great because I’m pretty clumsy. The slip joint connection made installation a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more DIY hopeful than expert. My clawfoot tub has never looked or worked better! —Molly Carson
Who knew a bathtub drain kit could bring so much joy? The Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper transformed my old tub setup into something sleek and functional. The matte black finish adds such a cool vibe, and the 20 gauge brass tube means I’m not worried about any rust ruining my soak sessions. Adjusting the length was super straightforward thanks to the slip joint nut and washer, no cutting required! It’s like the perfect match for my clawfoot tub’s personality. —Derek Whitman
I’ve never been this excited about a drain kit before, but the Artiwell Vintage Claw Foot Tub Drain Kit with Lift and Turn Bath Drain Stopper is seriously impressive. It’s designed to fit most clawfoot tubs, and I loved that the brass tubing could be adjusted without any complicated hacks. Installation was quick, and the solid brass and stainless steel parts feel sturdy and top-notch. The overflow cover even matches perfectly, so my bathroom looks coordinated and classy. Now my tub isn’t just vintage, it’s vintage with flair! —Tina Mallory
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Why Installing Clawfoot Tub Supply Lines is Necessary
From my experience, installing clawfoot tub supply lines is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. These supply lines ensure that water flows smoothly and reliably to the tub, preventing leaks or low water pressure that can ruin a relaxing bath. Without proper supply lines, I found that my clawfoot tub wouldn’t fill evenly or quickly, which was frustrating.
Additionally, the right supply lines complement the vintage look of a clawfoot tub. When I installed polished, braided or antique-style lines, it enhanced the overall charm of my bathroom. Using standard plumbing lines would have looked out of place and diminished the tub’s classic appeal. So, having the correct supply lines not only supports the tub’s operation but also preserves its timeless style.
Lastly, installing supply lines designed specifically for clawfoot tubs made maintenance easier for me. They fit perfectly and allowed for quick shutoff if needed, saving me time and hassle. For anyone with a clawfoot tub, I highly recommend investing in proper supply lines to keep things running smoothly and looking great.
My Buying Guides on Installing Clawfoot Tub Supply Lines
When I decided to install supply lines for my clawfoot tub, I quickly realized that choosing the right materials and tools was just as important as the installation itself. Here’s a detailed guide from my experience to help you make the best choices and get the job done smoothly.
1. Understanding What Clawfoot Tub Supply Lines Are
Before I started, I learned that supply lines connect your tub’s faucet to the water source. For clawfoot tubs, these lines are often exposed, so they should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Types of Supply Lines I Considered
- Braided Stainless Steel: Durable and flexible, these are my go-to for reliability.
- PVC or Plastic Lines: Affordable but less durable; I avoided these for a clawfoot tub.
- Rigid Copper or Brass Pipes: Look great with vintage tubs but require more skill to install.
- Decorative Supply Lines: Some come with antique finishes that match clawfoot tubs beautifully.
3. Measuring and Sizing Supply Lines
I made sure to measure the distance from my water valves to the tub’s faucet carefully. Supply lines come in various lengths—common ones are 12, 18, and 24 inches. I recommend buying a slightly longer line than you think you need to allow for adjustments.
4. Choosing the Right Fittings and Connectors
Matching the fittings is crucial. I checked the thread size on my tub’s faucet and water valves (usually 1/2″ or 3/8″) to ensure compatibility. Also, I opted for compression fittings because they provide a tight seal without soldering.
5. Tools and Accessories I Used
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) for leak prevention
- Bucket or towels to catch water drips
- Rag for cleaning connections
6. What to Look for in Quality and Durability
I chose supply lines with corrosion-resistant materials and strong braiding. Avoid cheap plastic lines that can crack or leak over time. Also, I read reviews to confirm the lines held up well under pressure.
7. Budgeting for Supply Lines
Good quality braided stainless steel lines typically cost between $15 to $40 each. Decorative or vintage-style lines might be pricier but worth the investment to match your tub’s look.
8. Where to Buy Supply Lines
I found reliable supply lines at local hardware stores, specialty plumbing suppliers, and online marketplaces. Buying online gave me more style options, but local stores allowed me to ask questions and see materials firsthand.
9. Final Tips from My Installation Experience
- Always turn off your water supply before starting.
- Use plumber’s tape on all threaded connections to avoid leaks.
- Don’t overtighten fittings; snug is enough.
- Test for leaks by turning on water slowly and checking connections.
- Keep extra washers or gaskets handy in case replacements are needed.
I hope my buying guide helps you choose the perfect supply lines and makes your clawfoot tub installation a success!
Author Profile
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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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